10 Pop-Punk Covers That Rival The Original Mega Hit

While metal bands bring a fierce edge to Top 40 songs, many pop-punk bands have also mastered the art of the cover. When these bands throw an unexpected version of a familiar hit into their live set, everyone strains their vocal chords to sing along and the electric vibe is undeniable. If you want to get that feeling when you're sitting at home or on your daily commute, check out these pop-punk covers of some classics. The bands bring new sounds and punk-rock energy to these popular jams, and you may like them more than the originals.

"Since U Been Gone" by A Day To Remember

A Day To Remember bring some extra aggression to this already pretty aggressive Kelly Clarkson song. With a dash of convincingly passionate screams thrown in, you get the feeling that maybe vocalist Jeremy McKinnon really is a scorned lover stewing over a bad relationship. Also, the copycat music video is pretty funny.

"Problem" by Set It Off

Ariana Grande and Iggy Azalea took the world by storm with this song, but it may be slightly overplayed. On the most recent Punk Goes Pop compilation, Set It Off transform it into a bombastic anthem that keeps the rhythm in tact. Singer Cody Carson also plays up the Grande-like sweetness in his voice which makes the song even more alluring.

"Absolutely (Story Of A Girl)" by Four Year Strong

Four Year Strong have an entire album of cover songs, but this one stands out because the band quickens the pace and brings this memorable song from 2000 back to life.

"Umbrella" by All Time Low

This Rihanna song sounds like it was destined to be an All Time Low cover. Though the band keeps with the basic style of the song and some people might criticize them for that, they still manage to pull off a great sound. Just the fact that it departs from the original plain beat and adds in guitar makes it a worthwhile listen.

"I Want You Back" by A Loss for Words

It's hard to take a song as classic as "I Want You Back" by The Jackson 5 and do it justice. However, A Loss For Words take a stab at it and come out on top. They give this song a modern twist and their whole album Motown Classics is a great covers collection. It's really to bad they're breaking up.

"Need You Now" by Sparks The Rescue

First of all, the intro to this song is awesome and they keep up this cool guitar riff throughout. Instead of going the melancholy route, Sparks The Rescue provide listeners with a more upbeat take on this popular Lady Antebellum song.

"My Heart Will Go On" by New Found Glory

Remember that incredibly sad Celine Dion song from Titanic that just makes you replay Leonardo DiCaprio sinking into the watery abyss over and over again? Well New Found Glory covered it and turned it into a cheery pop-punk blast that's very fast-paced and much more fun. It inspires head-bopping rather than tears.

"Little Lion Man" by Tonight Alive

Tonight Alive refreshes this Mumford and Sons acoustic jam by electrifying it. Jenna McDougall sings with especially passionate zeal during the chorus. The song sounds awesome with female vocals and the quickened up drum beats are a perfect addition.

"Time After Time" by Quietdrive 

This cover is less bubbly than most of the covers on this list but it has a big sound. Quietdrive take the heartwarming lyrics and transform the originally quiet tune into an invigorating soundbite.

"Torn" by Hands Like Houses 

These Aussies prove they have a compelling sound on this cover from the Punk Goes 90s second installment. This cut is a little less pop-punk and more alt-rock but it's still a really sweet cover. Hands Like Houses do fellow Australian Natalie Imbruglia proud with their accents shining through.

[Photo: Getty Images]